We have all pretty much grown up with the sight and sound of matches. We’ve seen Mom or Dad light the house heater with them, the gas oven and – although we do not smoke – we often saw Mom or Dad light-up by striking that little piece of cardboard and touching it to the tip of a cigarette.

Then there were the fun times when we’d go up to the lake, and Dad decided he was going to BBQ us some hamburgers and hot dogs. Out came the matches, coal, and kindling in his portable grill.

Occasionally he might bring out the BIC©, but it was usually matches because they were and are so plentiful and easy to get; often free for the asking.

However, the history of matches may not be what you expect. There was a time when matches were considered dangerous and extraordinary. They were also expensive!

After the break, go on over to the next page and read up on a curious account of matches.

As preppers and survivalists, they make for some fascinating history. One of these days, when you find yourself sitting around a campfire with friends, you will have a great conversation starter as well as a fire-starter!

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